South African GP promoters invited to submit bids to hold race · F1 · RaceFans

South Africa’s government is inviting potential promoters for a race in the country to come forward.

The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture has issued a tender for companies to host the race starting next year or in 2027. They envisage a 10-year term for the race.

South Africa is seeking to host its first round of the world championship since the 1993 race at Kyalami near Johannesburg. Formula One Management has previously indicated a desire to add a race in Africa, the only inhabited continent not on the 2025 F1 calendar.

“The chosen promoter must possess the expertise and governmental backing to orchestrate an exceptional world-class sports and entertainment event,” said the bid issued by the DCAS. “This promoter should demonstrate experience in hosting major events, developing sustainable business models for such events, and leveraging commercial opportunities in ticketing, sponsorship, and hospitality. Moreover, they must present a comprehensive vision for the grand prix that not only meets but exceeds Formula 1’s stringent requirements.”

The government has invited promoters to submit plans for street or permanent tracks. It has not excluded the possibility of developing an existing venue, such as Kyalami, which does not currently hold the FIA grade one certification necessary to hold F1 races.

They have specified the circuit “should be accessible within 30 minutes of a major city or a recognised ‘desirable destination location’ via multiple transport options.” It should be able to accommodate 125,000 spectators per day, at least three-quarters of which will arrive via public transport.

The track should measure 4.5-5.5km, including a straight or flat-out section measuring at least one kilometre. The designers have been urged to “incorporate any natural elevation changes (rather than aim to flatten a proposed site).”

Bids will be judged by a 12-member panel comprising representatives from motorsport, broadcasting, media and law. Applicants must submit their bids, including a refundable 10 million rand (£438,000) deposit, by the end of the month.

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